Florida Beachgoers Warned About Deadly, Flesh-easting Bacteria

Florida health officials are warning swimmers to be careful of a rare, life-threatening bacteria that lives in warm seawater, CBS News reports.

"People can get infected with Vibrio vulnificus when they eat raw shellfish," Florida Health Department spokeswoman Mara Burger said. "Since it is naturally found in warm marine waters, people with open wounds can be exposed to Vibrio vulnificus through direct contact with seawater."

People who contract the bacteria through eating raw shellfish typically see symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. When it enters the body through an open wound, however, it can cause infections that lead to "flesh-eating" symptoms such as ulcers and skin breakdown.

Antibiotics are typically used to treat infections, but sometimes amputation is necessary.

Seven people have contracted Vibrio vulnificus this year, and two have died.

Thirty-two cases of the bacteria were reported last year, and they typically are seasonal, with more than 85 percent occurring between May and October, CBS reported.

People are urged to cook shellfish thoroughly and avoid raw shellfish altogether. Beachgoers should stay out of the water if they have fresh cuts or scrapes, and people with weaker immune systems should wear shoes on the beach to avoid cuts and scrapes.

Florida health officials are warning swimmers to be careful of a rare, life-threatening bacteria that lives in warm seawater, CBS News reports.
People can get infected with Vibrio vulnificus when they eat raw shellfish, Florida Health Department spokeswoman Mara Burger...